Daniil Skvortsov – Guelph Storm – Player Profile

HT	WT	DOB	POS	SH	IMPORT DRAFT	NHLCS	NAT
6’4”	200	Jan 13, 2007	D	L	27th 2024	215 NA	RUS

SEASON	LEAGUE	TEAM	GP	G	A	PTS
2024-2025	OHL	Guelph Storm	59	5	13	18

As the 2025 NHL Draft approaches, one intriguing name is Daniil Skvortsov—a 6-foot-4, 214-pound defenseman from the Guelph Storm. While he may not be the flashiest prospect in this year’s class, Skvortsov’s blend of size, skating, and cerebral play has folks intrigued. He’s not just a big body patrolling the blue line—he’s a poised, calculated presence with a game built on anticipation, mobility, and effectiveness.

Skvortsov’s 2024–25 season with the Guelph Storm in the OHL was a showcase of steady development. In 59 games, he posted 5 goals and 13 assists for 18 points, along with 12 penalty minutes. While those numbers won’t leap off the page, they reflect his role as a defense-first blueliner who contributes in transition and makes smart, low-risk plays.

Skating and Mobility

For a player of his size, Skvortsov’s skating is a standout trait. His edgework is smooth, and he pivots with ease, allowing him to manage gaps and recover quickly in transition. This mobility makes him highly effective on retrievals and breakouts, where he can either skate the puck out or make a crisp first pass.

Skvortsov’s game is built on anticipation. He reads plays early, positions himself to cut off passing lanes, and rarely chases. His ability to stay in shooting lanes and close space with his reach makes him a frustrating matchup for opposing forwards. He blocks shots and wins most of his puck battles.

While not a high-volume shooter, Skvortsov is selective and efficient while maintaining calmness under pressure. He doesn’t force plays—he keeps the puck moving and limits turnovers. His breakout passes are short, often setting up clean zone exits.

Despite his size, Skvortsov isn’t a punishing hitter. He averages less than half a  hit per game, and scouts have noted a lack of assertiveness in physical battles. While he doesn’t shy away from contact, he tends to lead with his stick and body positioning rather than brute strength.

Skvortsov’s offensive game is understated. He’s not a power-play quarterback or a dynamic puck-rusher, but he has shown flashes of offensive awareness. His timing on pinches is solid, and he’s capable of jumping into the rush when the opportunity presents itself. Still, his offensive upside is likely limited to a secondary role—more of a facilitator than a finisher.